The Lunar Theme for the
January 26, 2009 New Moon

To Cross a Threshold

The Lunar Month of
January 26, 2009 - February 25, 2009

Nick Anthony Fiorenza

Copyright © 2008 Nick Anthony Fiorenza, All Rights Reserved

Astronomical Myth is a "picture language," imagery that articulates the qualities of cosmic intelligence expressing throughout the greater heavens and through our lives. We are not separate from the greater heavens, from the stars and planets around us, or from our beloved Earth, but are intimate parts of this dynamic, continually unfolding heavenly symphony. This entirety is our cosmic consciousness, the totality of our being. To explore the greater heavens and the heavenly cycles is to explore that which we are--our embracing consciousness and our spiritual evolution.

The stars would not be in the heavens
if we were meant to walk in darkness.

The purpose of the Lunar Planner is to learn to live in the experiential awareness of the present. Although the material below can provide philosophical context for your personal experience, the New Moon is the ideal time to experientially "tune in" to get your personalized lunar month's theme. Then, consciously participate with the changing Lunar Phase Characteristics in the unfoldment of that theme in your daily life using the Lunar Calendar and Lunar Planner Introduction (links at the bottom).

New Moon Phase Characteristics

Lunar Cycle Overview

Ring of Fire Eclipse

Our first New Moon of the year occurs on January 26, 2009 and is an Ring of Fire (Annular) Solar Eclipse. Eclipses, generally about six months apart, can be thought of as times that allow us a fresh start in the continuing series of spiraling lunar cycles--a transition time of disengaging or letting go and re-engaging and starting in a new octave of participation. The theme of a solar eclipse lunar cycle creates an underlying current that extends throughout the 6-month eclipse period. The eclipse adds an additional potency to this month's lunar cycle.

Because the Moon will cover only 93% of the sun's surface, it produces an annular eclipse--leaving a ring of solar fire visible--one of the most breathtaking eclipses. The Annular Solar Eclipse path starts in the South Atlantic Ocean, then travels south of Africa and into the Indian Ocean. Little of it occurs over land. However, the eclipse is visible from islands in Indonesia at sunset. Viewers in Australia, southeast Asia, southern parts of India, and South Africa, will see an off-center partial eclipse. More viewing information about the January 26, 2009 Annular Solar Eclipse can be found here:
http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/OH/OH2009.html#2009Jan26A

The New Moon eclipse occurs in the midst of a stellium (grouping) of planets in sidereal Capricorn, including retrograde Mercury, Mars, Juno, the Centuars Nessus and Chiron, and Neptune--all centering on the Lunar North Node. These planets synthesize their forces as if they were one massive planet--and in this case, creating a powerful force or wave that will sweep through our lives and carry us forward into a dynamic year of accelerated change and new realms of experience. This stellium's placement on the North Lunar Node creates a magnetic force that pulls us into the future.

In addition, the New Moon conjoins Jupiter, bringing a vast mobilizing and expansive force to this lunar cycle, as well as creating a revelatory one. The Earth-Moon-Solar Eclipse (Sun)-Jupiter alignment also marks the mid-point of vision and realization in the current Earth-Jupiter synodic cycle that began in July of 2008. The theme of this 399-day Earth-Jupiter synodic cycle, one mobilizing a multiplicity of opportunity, was presented in the July 2, 2008 Lunar Planner.

Synodic cycles are created when two (or more) planets align in their orbits around the Sun. The synodic cycle theme, defined by the planets involved and the star alignments at the time, will unfold until the two planets align again, marking the completion of the synodic cycle and the beginning of the next one.

There are many synodic cycles with unique astrological themes occurring simultaneously creating a harmonic symphony of creative unfoldment in consciousness. Synodic cycles can be thought of as longer-term underlying currents, much like the backdrop chorus of a symphony, providing the underlying astrological context guiding our evolution.

Learn the basics about Synodic Cycles & Synodic Astrology.

This Jupiter solar eclipse energetic will culminate on the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse of Feb 9, 2009, which is a part of a dynamic planetary geometric gateway. This gateway is created by the second of five Saturn-Uranus oppositions, along with Eris, Sedna, Varuna and Quaoar, and is activated by Chiron, which provides a bridge for us to cross. The event starts on Feb 5 with a Moon-Saturn-Uranus-Quaoar Grand Square, along with three Yods. It continues through the Gibbous Moon and to the Feb 9 Lunar Eclipse with the Sun conjoined Chiron. Expect a potent time.

The first Saturn-Uranus opposition occurred on Nov 4, 2008. Although the oppositions continue into 2010, the climax of this series of five Saturn-Uranus oppositions occurs in Sept 2009--when a unique planetary alignment takes place--"The Saturn-Uranus Synodic Opposition," which marks a primary turning in the dynamic of this nearly two-year long Saturn-Uranus opposition.

The Sun and Chiron make a revelatory conjunction on the Full Moon lunar eclipse of Feb 9, which marks the mid-point of vision and realization in the current and significant Earth-Chiron synodic cycle that began on August 10, 2008 on the Lunar Nodes. This lunar eclipse (Chiron-Sun-Moon-Earth-alignment) sets in motion a current that will help lead us across a dynamic chasm of change that this year brings. It also brings revelation regarding the current Earth-Chiron synodic cycle--discussed below. Chiron will also play a key role in dynamic set of alignments starting in May along with Juno--asteroid of covenant relationships and mutual equality.

The New Moon Solar Eclipse

Although most people tend to sum up an astrological sign with a particular characteristic, sidereal Capricorn has a changing complexity to it and a progressive character, which can be seen when we examine the variety of stars expressing through Capricorn.

Early sidereal Capricorn can involve a diversely-intented group of individuals and levels of consciousness, those either covert, manipulative and driven from self-interest (as the character of the old business & military paradigms), and those spiritually aware and integrous, including shamans and keepers of sacred knowledge and sacred ways. Here we find native indigenous peoples, often ornately dressed or adorned. This is the world of the shamanistic, the ceremonial, fanaticism, obsession, and passion. Although seemingly driven from personal motive, it is often of those with global vision and interest. Either way, surface appearances, cloaks and facades often shroud who is who in an aura of mystery.

This several degree area of the zodiak is of personal motive and secrecy, of esoteric knowledge, religion, higher education, and science; as well as the secret places and orders associated with such, or merely places of personal retreat and seclusion--but places strategic to one's purpose. Here we find locations such as military-scientific-extraterrestrial bases, hermitages, exclusive retreats, or isolated places with a spiritual focus--sacred sites or places of power under the care of their mysterious stewards. We also find an arsenal of strategic tools (technological or magikal), to either aid or control humanity as well as the skill to use them.

This is also where an eloquent and artful play of seduction and consent co-exists; but also one that can be insidiously cunning or even voraciously violent. Hear lies the nature of the tools of business and war: the interplay of people in their sexy disguises, whether cloaked in the eloquent and sleek stealth jet, particle beam laser based satellites; or merely dressed in seductive leather and lace. Microscopic discernment is required to see through the alluring facades inherent in this world of mystery, esoteric knowledge, personal motive, and covert maneuvers, to identify what is truly nurturing verses what just tantalizingly appears to be so.

As we move through the second decan of Capricorn, interest and focus extends from self to the interest of friends and family, it is more expressive, and is more about documentation and publication of information and its use, especially regarding legalities. The third decan of Capricorn gains the influence of Aquarian stars, which overlap from the constellation of Aquarius into later Capricorn. This latter band of Capricorn expands our interest to that which is more inclusive, of concern and caring for our extended families and friends. A key theme underlying the entire sign is still one driven from personal interest.

Jupiter and the New Moon reside at the 10° to 12° area of sidereal Capricorn and the North Lunar Node at about 14°, so this ~five degree band of sidereal Capricorn is of significance when exploring our New Moon theme.

Our Jupiter New Moon conjoins Algedi (Alpha) and Dabih (Beta) of Capricorn, head of the goat. Theta of Aquila the Eagle (which is of equilibrium and poise); and Gamma Sagitta (tip of the missile), both of which lie north of Capricorn. Also influencing is Vulpecula, the sly and cunning fox. South of the Capricorn is Alpha Microscopium; and Theta Indus (the indigenous steward). The North Lunar Node (at about 14°) lies at a point of resonance in the precessional cycle of Earth's pole, which I call the Hyperborean cusp.

Algedi is of covert and secret places: caves, spiritual retreats, sanctuaries and sacred sites. Algedi is also of places of unique purpose: scientific or medical centers, even military outposts. Although such places may seem to be isolated, lying helter-skelter upon the Earth, they are strategically and naturally distributed upon Earth’s energy grid. That which occurs at these locations is of significance in the greater evolutionary process for all souls and for the Earth herself because the energy at these points radiates throughout the Earth's energy matrix. Algedi also brings attention to the importance of our personal locations (bases/domiciles)--the resonance of which influences the nature of our experience and the fulfillment of our pursuits. Algedi can also be of covert operations, manipulative maneuvers, and all that is secret or hidden and behind the scenes.

Microscopium articulates the tendency, capacity, and need for magnification and examination of detail, which is required to see where to apply our knowledge and tools through the facades cloaking the human world. Conjoining is Gamma Sagitta. Its title, "tip of the missile of Zeus," speaks for itself.

Indus, a southern constellation directly under the first decan of sidereal Capricorn, was recently added in the early 1600's by German astronomer Johann Bayer, of Augsberg. Bayer articulates the qualities of this constellation as a nude (native) man holding arrows in both hands, (without a bow). In Chinese astronomy, Alpha Indus is the desert Persian. (Allen)

Indus articullates the keepers or stewards of sacred land. Such beings are most often highly astute and specialized, able to comprehend the intimate relation to the unseen forces guiding our lives and the natural world in which we live. They often use ceremonial magik and prayer. Indus articulates the capacity of those who are attuned to the Earth and heavens, particularly the primordial skills of any indigenous people, like those typically associated with a Native American elder, Aboriginal, desert or mountain shaman.

Indus indicates a shamanistic way of life, one having an intimate understanding about the relationship between space and time--the natural cycles that govern life. Indus indicates the essential attunement required to the heavens and the land--the astronomical-Earthgrid relation. Indus understands our connectedness to the land, and the importance of the location in which we live, our "places of power" that support our wellbeing and purposes in life. This also alludes to why military installations are often found on or near sacred sites, strategic locations on the Earthgrid.

The Australian Aboriginal's extensive understanding of the heavens and application of astronomical movement was integral in their culture, indicating not only how to live in attunement to nature, like times to gather certain foods, but also indicating times for ceremonies. Aborignal astronomy is said to predate that of the Babylonians, Chinese and Incan by thousands of years. The Aboriginal or shaman understands the intimate connection between the heavenly spirit world, the natural physical world, and the human world.

Aquila the Eagle perched high, is of equilibrium and poise, with global vision and local purpose. This point in the ecliptic brings our attention to the importance of the places in which we reside or sojourn to, special places strategic to our purpose. Different places on the Earth resonate in unique ways with our bio-harmonic makeup. The unique resonances occurring when we are at different places on Earth's energy grid can be supportive or debilitating in very unique ways. Conscious choice of, with sensitivity and respect for, the places we reside are essential to our life purpose.

Another recent addition to the first decan of Capricorn is our modern Fox with the Goose, Vulpecula cum Ansere. Placed by Hevelius in the 1600's, it is described (by Allen) as "uncomfortably crowding, and jammed into the space between the Beak of the Swan and Sagitta the Arrow." It lies along the galactic equator. However, Vulpecula perfectly and succinctly elucidates the meaning of this zodiakal band. Vulpecula articulates, in the very first couple of degrees of Capricorn, the deep appreciation of the exquisite beauty found in nature, but quickly turns, a few degrees later, into an “insidiously cunning and voraciously violent” characteristic.

Without this addition, one might consider only the more eloquent and artful play of seduction and consent by both parties, as elucidated by Albireo and the story of Zeus and Leda. But here, the taking can turn for personal desire with no concern whatsoever for the wellbeing or survival of another. In fact, a resultant death of another is implied. The real death is that of the high spiritual intent embodied in our earlier sign of Sagittarius resulting in the aberrations and confusions inherent when manifesting into the structures of the human world.

Vulpecula cum Ansere sums up the entire first half of sidereal Capricorn. Lying directly over the missile of Zeus, Sagitta, Vulpecula amalgamates the Albireo theme with that of Sagitta, with that of Algedi, and with that of neighboring Aquila as our war machine--all revealing the nature of the tools of business and war. The Fox is indicative of the sexy, sly, cunning, covert maneuvers used to get the goose, and, as is most often the case, disguised to be something other than what it truly is.

Thus, this few degree band of zodiak surrounding our New Moon is somewhat diversely mysterious, but is mainly about our personal lives, our personalities and personology, and of how we interact and interrelate in life. It is of our strategies in life, of the strategic locations from which we participate, and of how we apply our personal attributes, our arsenal of tools. It especially asks that we examine the details and the intentions behind the cloaks and façades that we present to each other and in the world; and that we get clear and focused. This area of zodiak is also of the militaristic, of totalitarian and tyrannical type leaders, and of their covert maneuvers and strategies (articulated by nearby Altair, eye of the Aquila the Eagle). The application of strategic tools in this militaristic light is especially articulated by Sagitta, the missile of Zeus, and Alpha Microscopium, their pin-point precision. We all however have strategic tools, whether used for war or peace. The other character in play here is about special or strategic locations, those natural to Earth, such as places of power, sacred sites, etc.--as well our personal bases or domiciles from which we participate and the importance of their resonance regarding the fulfillment of our personal pursuits.

Jupiter's mobilizing and expansive force along with this lunar cycle leading into the crescendo (intensifying orb) of the second Saturn-Uranus opposition, can dramatize an atmosphere of war and conflict. However, should this occur, it certainly is only a surface level crisis point mobilized by those so lost in conflict. This alignment also inspires the mobilization, expansion, and the application of our personal tools. The tension building through the first half of this lunar cycle inspires a fresh start, to breakthrough a crisis point into a new vibrational modality of being. And we will see, as we continue thought the subsequent Saturn-Uranus synodic opposition later in the year; and when Jupiter joins Uranus in its opposition to Saturn in 2010-11, that this will all lead to a beneficial and radically expansive change in our lives and in our world.

An article about the "Saturn-Uranus Synodic Opposition" and associated "Jupiter-Uranus Synodic Synchronization" spanning from 2009 through 2011 will be forthcoming.

The Earth-Sun-Moon alignment occurring very near a Lunar Node is what creates an eclipse. Thus, the North Node's position is an important significator as to what is required in this Lunar Cycle as well as through the following six-months. The Lunar Node axis is also a magnetic pointer, a direction to move. The North Lunar Node (on the precessional hyperborean cusp) also conjoins Epsilon Indus (associated with the seven-pointed Star Trek emblem--to go where we have not gone before); along with the northern Dumbbell Nebula M27 and the Pulsar JP 1953, both in Vulpecula, the sleek and sexy, but sly and cunning fox.

Pulsars are ever beating beacons for the soul. This Vulpecula pulsar's message is to let go and to move on--from an old covert and manipulative fear-based exclusive way of participating, to a more open, wholesome and inclusive way of participating. The need here is to realize it is time to mobilize upon more expansive direction. This does not mean denial of feelings or our personal needs, on the contrary, it means to be emotionally and personally involved but with an embracing perceptivity, seeing behind the dramatic facades of our mortal world and through the innate babblings of those lost in it, acknowledging our true inner needs and articulating them eloquently so they can be fulfilled.

Epsilon Indus (inherently perceptive and ornate in relations) also conjoins Alpha (incessant babbling), and Theta Microscopium (attention to detail) creates an ornately loquacious and negotiative quality that demands extreme attention to detail and which is precision minded. Open communication and creative negotiations are highlighted that lead to solution for all parties involved.

"Trust" is the primary word defining this specific zodiacal longitude--to "believe" in self and in life. It is about moving from the covert manipulative self-interest-based notions that we must fight for and take to survive, to that of self-love, self-respect, and the expression and application of our personal attributes and beauty in the world, and supporting that expression in each other. It also marks where we must shift from the exclusive separatist nature of early Capricorn to the more inclusive and mature nature of latter Capricorn.

Pre-trigger to the Saturn-Uranus Opposition

Strong planetary and geophysical resonances begin on January 28 leading into the Crescent Moon of Jan 30. In sequence, the Sun conjoins the North Lunar Node on January 28; the Moon conjoins Uranus and then immediately opposes Saturn, in the crescendo of the Saturn-Uranus opposition; Venus and Pallas start a new synodic cycle (a heliocentric conjunction) leading into the Venus Crescent Moon, which follows on January 30. Mercury stations to complete its retrograde during this time as well.

Venus & Pallas

Venus and Pallas begin a new 279-day synodic cycle in sidereal Gemini on Jan 29, 2009 just as the Moon conjoins Uranus and just before the Venus Crescent Moon. Venus and Pallas played key role in the first Saturn-Uranus opposition, which created a Grand Square on November 4, 2000. This was presented in the October 28, 2008 Lunar Planner and in the article "The November 2008 US Presidential Election & the Uranus-Saturn Opposition."

Learn the basics about Synodic Cycles & Synodic Astrology.

This new Venus-Pallas 279-day synodic cycle's theme is defined by stars that create the foot of Castor of the Gemini Twins: Tejat, Eta; Dirah, Mu Gemini; and the bright Reflection Nebula IC444.

Tejat, Dirah and IC 444 portend eminence and renown, and will make visible that which has been suppressed, oppressed, hidden in the closet, but destined to be seen, in a unique fashion.

Alignments with the foot of Castor indicate that it is time to come out of hiding, to become visible, to stand forth in the limelight, and to make self visible, available, and approachable. This can also indicate the need to emerge from our own mental obscurations and illusions. Tejat may indicate it is time to claim one's role in the physical world, and to take the steps at hand that are required for the physical unfoldment of what we want and for our participation in the world. It is time to do what is required. Tejat can also indicate those who are physically marked in some way: including birth marks, genetic marks, or other unique features including tattoos, and especially jewels; or it may reveal marks or signs indicating it is time for action.

As Tejat brings to the surface that which has been suppressed, we may draw experiences that reflect parts of our selves that seem rather dark and opposing to our unfoldment. Forces of the mortal world may indeed be out for our demise, but they are our worthy opponents, for they reflect the fears, hesitancies, and blockages within our selves to step through into our paths of fulfillment in the world. Tejat asks that we be willing to walk through the shadows of self to claim our power and place in the physical world. The more we express the truth of who we are openly in the world the less forces that may suppress that truth have any power.

For those articulating the mature quality of Pallas (the artful expression of creative intelligence that leads to solution beyond the duality of sidetaking), this several month cycle inspires the emergence of those who live from and intelligently express heart in an active and participatory role. This is a fitting several-month underlying current complimenting the Saturn-Uranus opposition cycle that recently began.

Crescent Moon Phase Characteristics

Expanding on the Theme

The hours before the Crescent Moon provide a time when we relinquish patterns of the past that would limit our creative ability to expand on the lunar theme now unfolding. The Crescent Moon is the time when the sprouting seedling sloughs off its protective coat of the past and emerges in its new expression. As the Crescent Moon unfolds, the growing phase of the lunar cycle begins as we start to amalgamate our personal creativity with the original lunar theme.

The Crescent Moon occurs on January 30, 2009, which occurs just across the cusp of sidereal Pieces and just as the Crescent Moon conjoins Venus. This is the last of the current Venus-Crescent Moon synchronizations.

The Moon and Venus lie at "the circlet" of Pisces, a circle of stars embracing the Piscean cusp and which marks the head of the western fish. Here we cross the cusp into the palpable and emotional world of the masses and of human life. Lying north of the circlet and marking this Piscean cusp is the star Matar on the left forearm of Pegasus. Matar is from Al Sa‘d al Matar--the Fortunate Rain--which articulates movement from high mental and social activity of later sidereal Aquarius, and the vulnerability to psychic manipulation and entrapment that living in the mind alone can cause, exemplified by the Zetas of Reticuli, which mark the end of Aquarius, to the wet sensual emotional world of sidereal Pisces and the aquatics.

Our Venus-Crescent Moon inspires a very palpable, emotional and sensuous application of heart. This is good time to leave the realm of mind and to let heart lead. Notice Venus' continued influence throughout this rather intense period--a message to heed.

Mercury Direct

Mercury completes its retrograde on Feb 1, which marks the full commencement of the new 116-day Earth-Mercury synodic cycle that began in the midst of Mercury's retrograde and which was presented in the previous Lunar Planner of Dec 27, 2008--a synodic theme defined by the very unique and magical stars, Alpha Monoceris and Aludra of Canis Major.

The Venus Crescent Moon in combination with this specific Mercury station opens the portal for unexpected encounters.

First Quarter Moon Phase Characteristics

Initiate Action

The First Quarter Moon of each lunar cycle draws an external stimulus to initiate action as we move from the inspirational quarter of the lunar cycle into the action quarter.

This First Quarter Moon occurs on February 2 in sidereal Aries and in the midst of the Ram. The Moon conjoins Menkar of Cetus; Almach, the foot of the princess Andromeda; and Zibal of Eridanus, a stopping point along the river of life. Also adding their stellar influences are Tish of the Queen Cassiopia; and Alpha Horologium, the pendulum clock.

Zibal marks a point of consideration along Eridanus, the river of life, inviting an introspective moment while Triangulum invites us to look beyond the dramatics of those around us and of own life scenarios to realize any entrapping conditions manifest in our lives are but a reflection of the projection of our own fears--a principle key in the revelation found along the river.

In classical astrology Almach is considered to be "honorable and eminent," however, Almach is the beautiful but snagged foot of Andromeda about to be snapped by the jaws (Menkar) of ole' Cetus, the fear-instilling technobureaucratic monster created by collective human consciousness. Although we may find ourselves in entrapping situations apparently caused by forces around us, Almach inspires us to take responsibility for our naiveté and to do the inner work to become self-reliant rather than dependent and thus continually at the mercy of any manipulative forces around us or entrapping situations we may find ourselves in.

Tish is the whip of the Queen Cassiopeia. The intolerant queen, crusted with frustration due to finding herself unable to have that which she knows she is entitled, in-between the tormenting forces of both the manipulative gods (astronomical cycles of life) and the monstrous human world, and at loss with how to deal with either, becomes spitefully arrogant. Fortunately, when feeling trapped and we lash out against the world around us, the whip of arrogance (Tish, Gamma Cassiopeia) often snaps back to scar our own hand, especially when applied with vengeance. Lowering ourselves to this level or resourcefulness, using a tool found only in the dramatics of the monstrous world, will lead us only to our own demise. Here we have a statement of something we must surrender to receive that which we are due--righteous arrogance, the attitude that keeps us from the very thing want.

Our stimulus to action? Time is ticking away (Horologium), but we must free ourselves from our own righteous attitudes to escape our entrapments, otherwise action from arrogance will only exhaust us further and tighten the chain of bondage. We must take responsibility for our own lives rather than waiting around for someone else to change first, for events to change on their own, or for someone to come and save us. Instead, we must diligently do with focus and brilliance that which we must to claim our freedom and step forth into our fulfillment.

The Second Saturn-Uranus Opposition

Within the 24-hour crescendo leading into the Gibbous Moon, retrograde Saturn and Uranus make the second of their five oppositions in the early hours of Feb 5, 2009, triggered by Moon opposite Quaoar, all of which make a potent Grand Square. The potency of this event starts on the eve of Feb 4 and continues through the Gibbous Moon which occurs in the early hours of Feb 6.

Timeline of the five Saturn-Uranus Oppostions.
Juno joins Uranus in June 2009. Jupiter joins Uranus in 2010.

The challenge, which started on the first Saturn-Uranus opposition of Nov 4, 2008, continues. The new, radical, unconventional and higher-intelligence wanting to break from the conformity of the past (Uranus) stands in opposition to the long-established, conventional, and stoic ( Saturn, which is now retrograde and in its redefining phase).

The Grand Square

The Moon and Quaoar, responsible for the Grand Square, play a primary role in the second Saturn-Uranus opposition.

Quaoar (pronounced kwah-whar) is one of new Dwarf Planets discovered in Ophiuchus in 2002. Quaoar supports a "harmonious revolution"--that we surrender egoic consciousness and align to divine order. Quaoar supports our return to the "sacredness of life"; to realize all things in life are sacred; and that it is our responsibility to have respect for natural order and to live in harmony with nature; without this we do not have respect for our selves. More about Quaoar.

Quaoar, still in Ophiuchus (sidereal Scorpio) conjoins Eta and Zeta Ara, and the Ara Black Hole X-ray source V821.

Ara, Altar of the Centaur, has also been imaged as the Altar of Dionysus, son of Zeus and Semele, god of wine and fertility, this was before the creation of Norma the square which is oddly placed between Lupus and Ara. Here was a censer in which perfumes were burned before the dead, also a brazier, both of which were associated with Vesta, goddess of the Hearth. Ara also represents the altars on the summits of temple towers, serving as lighthouses for the ancients, with the Alexandrian Pharos being the great example. The illustrations of Hyginus (1488-1535) show an altar from which flames ascended with demons on either side. Poetically it was described with flames rising northward through the Milky Way--along the starry stream and through galactic centre (Allen). Dionysus, god of ecstasy and wine, a mystic and lover, is known, in part, for rescuing women (descending to Helle--mortality--to save is mother) and restoring their office to Goddess--to their immortality. All of this refers to the purification process, the surrendering, or casting out that which is degenerative (the accumulations of judgments that bind us to mortality (judge ye not lest ye be judged) so we may attain our divine birthright, awakened to the illumined durative (immortal) souls that we are. In this light we have the principles underlying healing and the transmutation process, for which our northern illumined Ophiuchus stands.

The mythical image here is of the Centaur placing Lupus the beast with conscious deliberation upon the Centaur's sacrificial altar. V821 in Ara is an x-ray emitting & fluctuating binary star. This is a collapsed object (like a old neutron star) that accretes matter, and thus had been placed in the old Black Hole model by astronomers and had commonly been called the Ara Black Hole. V821 accretes emotion for consummation in the Centaur's Pyre. Here we must place, with conscious deliberation, any long standing grief, guilt, anger, and any other emotion (especially self-judgment related) that we are holding upon the Altar of the Centaur for our transmutation. North from the Sting of the Scorpion drips the transmuting elixir (the often harsh lessons of life), upon the Altar. This act is essential to experience the actual neurological transmutation made possible here, and that leads to our greater self-mastery; the mastery of the creative and carnal forces of life exemplified by Ophiuchus, who stands over the Scorpion and this entire scene. If we are not ready to surrender and relinquish our antiquated emotional baggage, we are held back and continue to experience upsets, diversions and even traumatic and catastrophic events in our lives.

This sacrificial rite, occurring at the end of sidereal Scorpio, under its sting, and upon the low Altar of the Centaur, precedes movement to the high Altar, which resides in early Sagittarius, and where upon lies our Galactic Center--and which leads to the subsequent passage through the Gate of God (5° sidereal Sag).

Lying opposite Quaoar, and triggering this event is the pre-Gibbous Moon in late sidereal Taurus. The Moon is a bit north of the ecliptic approaching El Nath, the North Horn of the Bull, and will pass 1.5 degrees just south of this star.

In addition, the broken up Comet stream 73P/Schwassmann-Wachmann conjoins and lies in direct line with the Moon. This icy comet began to splinter apart in 1995, believed to be caused my thermal stress as it made its way around the Sun. This infrared image provided by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope, provides one of the best views of the comet after its breakup. The flame-like objects are the comet's fragment tails. The line connecting the fragments is composed of the dust along the comet's path.

The Comet adds a dynamic aspect to the Moon's presence in this Grand Square, perhaps helping to explod the issues at hand into detailed view.

The Moon lies between the ecliptical longitudes of Rigel and Bellatrix of Orion, and conjoins Haedus, AE Aurigae, and the Flaming Star Nebula C405 of the Charioteer.

Rigel is of enterprising entrepreneurialship. Orions in general are known for their architectural capacity. Prominent alignments with Rigel (and Bellatrix) bring the capacity to embody, direct and execute large, extravagant and grandiose projects; bringing good through commerce and business affairs. Kursa, conjoining Rigel, marks the beginning of Eridanus, the River of Life. Kursa is of new beginnings, new journeys, new involvements, and new legs of our lives. Although it may be time to go forth anew, into a new phases of our lives, we must be aware of the tenacious perseverance required when staring new life journeys, to move from the wars and trials of the past to the freedom of the future.

Bellatrix, Gamma Orion, is the Female Amazon Warrior, the conqueror, star of the Amazon. Bellatrix holds excellent capacities in "strategic planning," (in contrast to Betelgeuse, the male warrior, whose capacity is more about response in the moment). Classically, Bellatrix is lucky in administrative accomplishment--in civil, political, and military office. Bellatrix is especially favorable for women, and brings a loquacious quality. This star announces the rising of the more brilliant enterprising star Rigel, the left foot of Orion.

The Alpha and Beta stars of northern Camel, which conjoin Bellatrix, articulate the nature of this zodiakal band in Taurus well. The Camel spreads wealth around the world through commerce and business, is a resilient, enduring, hard working and intelligent beast of burden with the ability to go for days without water before becoming distressed, one suited for long and arduous journeys. This also articulates the planning and administrative nature of Bellatrix and the plodding and enduring nature of Taurus in general.

The principle conjoining star is AE Auriga in the Flaming Star Nebula IC405, which lies north of Taurus is Auriga, the Charioteer.

An interesting observation about the energetic star AE Auriga in the Flaming Star Nebula is that it came from the same location as Mu of Columba the Dove, emblem of Divine dispensation--both from the Great Orion Nebula. It appears as if the two stars had a very close encounter only to be expelled from the Orion Nebula, and now reside in different parts of the heavens. This suggests a renegade or outcast quality, one who lives outside the beliefs and conventions of its group, a free and highly creative thinker moving on its own, even with its own agenda, which is quite fitting to this longitude of Taurus, and typical to impious but highly creative and enterprising Orion.

In addition to the Moons conjoining stars, El Nath, the north Horn of the Bull, also adds significant character to this Grand Square due to the Moon-El Nath ecliptical latitude.

El Nath and Al Hecka are the Horns of the Bull, which lie over the head of Orion and south of the Charioteer, Auriga. The Horns embody the pursuit, struggle, and engagement in the physical world. El Nath, Beta Taurus (also shared with Auriga as Gamma Auriga), the north horn of the Bull, brings the capacity for tenacious perseverance for accomplishment. El Nath motivates the drive to continue to persevere to achieve a breakthrough. El Nath is of worthy pursuit for our future freedom.

Gibbous Moon Phase Characteristics

Attraction & Involvement

The 24-hour period just before the Gibbous Moon is a time of perseverance, of pushing through in the midst of the action quarter of the lunar cycle. The Gibbous Moon is when the pressure releases and we enter the Pollinating Phase of the lunar cycle, which begins a social and communicative time of magnetic attraction.

This Gibbous Moon occurs on February 6 in sidereal Gemini and conjoins Tejat, the foot of Castor. The Moon lies opposite Pluto in Sag with Venus in Pisces, which creates a T-square to both (Venus now squares Pluto).

Curiously, the Gibbous Moon resides at the same location in the ecliptic (at the foot of Castor) where the Venus-Pallas synod occurred (looking from the Sun). From Earth's view, Venus resides in sidereal Pisces, 90° from Pluto and 90° to the Moon--thus Moon triggers the Venus-Pluto Square.

Thus our Gibbous Moon theme is the same as the Venus-Pallas synodic theme--to make ourselves visible, available, and approachable, to actively participate--fitting for a Gibbous Moon, which begins the time of communication and social activity in the lunar cycle. Pluto resides on the Solar Apex--marking the end of what we may call "normal" and demands we honor and walk the unique path of the soul--paths true and unique to each of us.

The "issue" however is the dynamic expression of Venus--the art of heart. Venus, in wet and palpable Pisces, conjoins Omega Pisces and the emotionally turbulent Diphda, the tail of ole Cetus. North is the great Square of Pegasus and further north is the constellation Lacerta the Lizard.

Undaunted strength and clarity of heart is required to lift ourselves from any emotional dramatics that may knock us down and thrash us around, diverting us from living true to heart. Once again, Venus continues to be a significant key in this very dynamic and intense Lunar Cycle; and reminds us to stay in the strength and power of the Heart.

Lacerta embodies the pure unadulterated reptilian essence--primordial self--the Akka guardians of Mu. The Lacerta mediate between the benevolent loving intent and tenderness of who Abraham Merrit calls the “Silent Ones” who emanate “Holiness,” they who have full understanding, mastery and experiential knowledge of primordial and elemental forces which mold consciousness itself into organic form; awareness that precedes even telepathy or for that matter thought itself. From their gaze, in Merit’s words “streamed a current of reassurance, of good will--nay, of intense spiritual strength. I saw that they were not fierce, not ruthless, nor inhuman, despite their strangeness; no they were kindly; in some unmistakable way, benign and sorrowful--so sorrowful!” Merrit continues referring to the inner-Earth Lizard beings as those who ally for the Silent Ones as “...an evolution of highly intelligent beings from ancestral sources radically removed from those through which mankind ascended. These half-human highly developed batrachians they call the Akka...” (Merrit, Abraham. The Moon Pool. Liveright Publishing Corp., New York, 1919) The Polynesian also refer to their ancestral origins, though as the Mo’o, again as an inter-extraterrestrial origin of high-vibrational light-being pure spiritual reptilian essence. The Lacerta are the guardians to the Primordial Origin of Earth's Precessional Cycle--the "Evolutionary Cycle of the Soul"; the keepers of the ancient wisdom regarding the primordial origins of the Earthian race. Only by amalgamating our true primordial nature with the high spiritual essence of soul do we become free from psychic forces that can otherwise entrap and confound us.

The Moon's Perigee

The Lunar Perigee (when the Moon is closest to the Earth during its monthly orbit) occurs on Feb 7 20:09 GMT. Lunar Perigee & Apogee 2009 Chart

Full Moon Phase Characteristics

Vision, Enthusiasm, & Realization of the Theme
Chiron's Threshhold

The Full Moon marks the culmination point in the lunar cycle, the climax, the point of excitement and celebration. The hours leading up to the Full Moon provide a time of "vision and enthusiasm." The time just after Full Moon is a one of "realization of the lunar month's theme," a time to kick back and relax, to allow our realizations to surface in consciousness.

Our Full Moon Lunar Eclipse occurs on February 9, 2009 in sidereal Cancer. The Sun conjoins Chiron--bringing the past powerful two weeks and the second Saturn-Uranus opposition to a culmination.

The Full Moon-Earth-Sun-Chirion alignment aspects the Saturn-Uranus oppositions multi-faceted geometry--with the Sun and Chiron 30° to Uranus, and the Moon 30° to Saturn.

Prenumbral Lunar Eclipses are usually hard to see because they are faint. However the lunar eclipse is visible in Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, and East Asia. Viewers in western Canada and the western USA may have a great view as the Moon sets (just before sunrise). Viewers in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe may see the eclipse as the Moon rises (at sunset).

More about the February 9, 2009 Prenumbral Lunar Eclipse:
http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/OH/OH2009.html#2009Feb09N

The Sun and Chiron make a revelatory conjunction on the Full Moon eclipse. Notice in the above aspect chart, that this activates the Varuna-Saturn to Chiron Yod (Finger of God). This should bring realizations not only about the theme of this lunar cycle, but also about the nature of the bridge now manifest and visible in front of us, the bridge that emerges out of the dynamic Saturn-Uranus-Sedna-Varnus-Eris-Quaoar planetary gateway occurring over this last week. The Yod demands we address Sun-Chiron. Heeding our realizations on this Full Moon Eclipse--regarding the bridges we must now cross in our lives--would be wise.

Chiron plays a significant role in the Saturn-Uranus opposition because Chiron's orbit harmonically synchronizes with the orbit of Uranus when Chiron is at its furthest point from the Sun (aphelion), and crosses into Saturn's orbit when it is closest to the Sun--thus linking the realms of the two planets. Chiron brings radical new discoveries and unexpected insights (Uranus) into the world of function and application (Saturn), and provides a way to expand (bridge) from that which is concretized and established by creating new neurological pathways where none previously existed. Chiron is currently moving toward its aphelion (furthest point from the Sun) where its next Chiron-Uranus orbital resonance occurs.

Chiron's Revelation

The Chiron-Sun-Moon-Earth-alignment also marks the mid-point of vision and realization in the current and significant year-long Earth-Chiron synodic cycle that began on August 10, 2008 conjoining Delphinus, the Dolphin star system--also in an eclipse Lunar Cycle, and residing on the lunar nodes, magnetically drawing us to explore the new and unknown (Chiron North Node), to leave that which is visible, our old patterns of behavior, perceptions of self, and our current roles in the world (Sun South Node). The Earth-Chiron synodic cycle was presented in the August 1, 2008 Lunar Planner.

The Full Moon & the Eye of the Lion

The Full Moon in late sidereal Cancer lies under the auspices of the Head of the Lion, which looks back over the Cancer-Leo cusp. It conjoins Algenubi, eye of the Lion. Also influencing are Merak of the Great Bear; the hind foot of the Bear, Tania Bor and Aus; and the southern Naos of Argo Navis.

Adventurism, exploration, breaking new trail, to go where we have not gone before, to get on with it--to engage, are all themes here. These are actions that require the courage of self-conviction, of belief in self, and in our paths in life; to have the inner confidence to step away from the convention of mass consensus and beyond the boundaries of known self.

Algenubi, Eye of the Lion, best embodies the theme of this few degree band of the ecliptic. Algenubi is of "breaking trail." These are the explorers and adventurers with interest beyond mere egoic importance to fit in with those performing on the worldly stage. Algenubi provides an opening into inner–dimensional chambers of the "Heart of the Lion"--embodied by Regulus. To enter this entrance to the inner sanctuary of the Lion Path, and to find the hidden, golden treasures within, we must have integrity within--to live true to our hearts, to our soul purpose on Earth.

Dubhe, Alpha Ursa Major and Merak, Beta Ursa Major, are the two brightest stars of Ursa Major. At this time in Earth's precessional cycle, a line drawn from Dubhe through Merak leads directly to Earth's current North Celestial Pole (near the star, Polaris, of the Little Bear, Ursa Minor). Merak and Dubhe represent the alignment of personal will and divine will in allegiance to the evolutionary fulfillment of Earth's polar precessional cycle--to the fulfillment of evolutionary cycle of the soul. Merak provides the motivation to get on with it, to engage.

Also conjoining Algenubi and Merak is the hind-foot of the Great Bear composed of Tania Bor and Tania Aus, implying the power of our convictions is what propels us beyond our current, accepted stance in life. This is a power point in the zodiak; a place to leave the comforts of our existing reality behind and to confidently surge into new territory.

Naos, Zeta Puppis of the Argo, is one star of five creating the "Egyptian X" along with Procyon, Betelgeuse, Phaet Alpha Columba the Dove; and with the center star being Sirius--our impetuous Great World Teacher. Naos, on the aplustre of the stern of the Argo, is a star of transcendent power and purpose behind the mission of the soul. The stars of the Argo are associated with greater evolutionary matters and ensuring our evolutionary fulfillment.

Movement and Expansion for Relationships

Juno, asteroid of covenant relations and mutual equality, conjoins Jupiter on the North Lunar Node in mid-sidereal Capricorn on February 11. Mars joins Jupiter and Juno on February 17-20. This conjunction precedes a new tri-fold synodic cycle with Juno, Jupiter and Mars that starts on March 4-8 in the following lunar cycle.

This conjunction and the forthcoming tri-fold synodic cycle marks a principal transition point for relationships of all types--those of a personal intimate nature, and those in the category of partnerships or colleagues, like business partnerships, relations between political leaders, etc.

The conjunction occurring now on the North Lunar Node motivates expansive creative action for relationships to emerge from encrusted patterns of the past into a new future. Issues of mutual compatibility and trust arise, along with a dynamic abundance of undaunted enthusiasm, especially favorable for large public co-operative projects.

This location in mid-Capricorn was presented earlier with "Trust" being the primary requirement--to "believe" in self and in life. It requires shifting from an exclusive self-interest focus to one of inclusive mutual-interest.

Juno's astrological role (supporting radical changes for relationships to move into the future) will become more significant starting in June when Juno meets up with Uranus, and continuing through November.

Sun-Neptune

The Sun conjoins Neptune on February 12 in the last degree of sidereal Capricorn. Neptune's dissolving influence helps to eliminate personality-based facades and illusory desires, while at the same time inspiring us to find a more natural mode of self-expression and sense of purpose.

The Sun and Neptune's placement with several fortuitous stars including Sadalsuud of Aquarius, Kitalpha Equuleus (the little horse); Deneb Algedi, the tail of the fish-goat, and approaching Sadr, the heart of Cygnus, which lies just past the Aquarian cusp, all favor the shedding of any cloaks and facades we may hide behind. This placement is extremely fortunate for those willing to be real and who show their true selves--especially for those in leadership positions. Mars is exalted at this zodikal location, which reveals a highly creative process in action--an enthusiastic motivating force.

This conjunction also marks the mid-point of vision and realization in the current 367-days Earth-Neptune synodic cycle that began on the Full Moon eclipse of August 17 2008 on the Capricorn-Aquarian cusp. This cycle was presented in the August 1, 2008 Lunar Planner.

This cycle supports lively visionary brainstorming and brings fortuitous news regarding creative ideas, especially regarding projects and pursuits incorporating multi-media and the visual arts.

Disseminating Moon Phase Characteristics

Manifestation & Demonstration

The hours leading up to the Disseminating Moon generally is an accelerated and busy time of last minute preparation that leads into the birth point in the lunar cycle, the time of bearing the fruit of the cycle, of claiming its gift.

Our Manifesting Moon of February 12-13 lies in mid-sidereal Virgo. It trines the Juno-Jupiter-North Lunar Node conjunction. Pallas, in mid-sidereal Taurus, completes this energetic creating a Grand Trine. It also lies opposite Venus and aspects Ceres and Vesta, bringing all of the primary asteroids into play inspiring us to assemble what were fragment pieces into a coherent whole.

The Moon conjoins Diadem of Coma Berenices; The Antennae (of the Ark), the spiral galaxy NGC 4039 in Corvus the messenger raven; and Vindemiatrix and Porrima of Virgo.

Diadem of the Virgin (Alpha Coma Berenices), which lies just north of the Virgin's head, and the Antennae (of the Ark), the Spiral Galaxy NGC 4039, in Corvus the Raven, the messenger bird, which lies just south of the Virgin on the back of Hydra, work intimately together. Diadem is the jeweled crown in the Virgin's hair. Ornate Crowns in antiquity were designed with specific metals, jewels, and geometries to accentuate the wearer's telepathic and clairvoyant capacities, and for their communion with transcendent realms of consciousness. Diadem accentuates our capacity to attune to our spiritual / soul guidance which communicates through the magnetic forces of nature, through the world around us, as articulated by the stars of southern Corvus the messenger bird. Alpha Coma and the Antennae of Corvus reveal the importance of being attuned to the natural world to receive our guiding impulses.

Corvus, combined with Crateris, has also been imaged as the "Ark of the Covenant." Although the Ark can be considered a technological transceiver for extraterrestrial communication, or a measure of arc in precessional (God's) time, it also has to do with our personal attunement. Our spinal columns are vertically arrayed antenna systems, the most sensitive of all, which receives gravitational waves encoded with cosmic intelligence that the Earth receives and expresses from Earth's core outward. These waves of guidance culminate in our cranial structures where they are then refocused to our pineal glands, neuro-endocrine transducers that translates this information into that which the pituitary, the master control center of the brain, can use. Being a clear, open and grounded vessel is required for perception of these subtle energies. Following them is yet more important.

Vindemiatrix and Porrima mark the centre of sidereal Virgo and embody the essence of sidereal Virgo. This is also the exalted seat of our winged messenger Mercury, significantly adding perspective and understanding to the nature of the stars at this ecliptical longitude. Mercury is the vessel by which these stars function in their highest expression, that is, through the neurology of communication and logistics, and all that Mercury characterizes.

Mercury is a significant indicator used in astrological forecasting for agricultural commodities. Its exalted location lying in the midst of sidereal Virgo, sign of wheat and the harvest, explains why--a realization missed in tropical astrology, which places this ecliptical location in the tropical sign of Libra.

Porrima, just two degrees north of the ecliptic expresses through the higher nature of the Mercurial mind--our higher brain centres that activate our capacity for clairvoyance and telepathy. Porrima opens our ability to have foresight to see future probabilities. Vindemiatrix, just north of Porrima, classically the Harvester, indicates the time is at hand, that it is in the timing. "This star is said to confer great powers of thought and an exacting, severe nature" (siderealist Andrés Takra). Both stars lie over Corvus the Raven, the messenger bird. Corvus communicates through all of nature, and asks us to read the natural world, to listen to and observe the signs expressed in daily life from the world around us. Porrima and Vindemiatrix offers this fore-vision so we may and act accordingly to meet the future events to come already precipitating from the realm of probabilities.

The essence of this zodiakal area, comprised by all of these conjoining entities expresses through the higher mental capacities associated with the ability to for-sense future probabilities, which includes clairvoyant and telepathic awareness. This prophetic ability is with specific purpose, not only for communication, but action. This is much more than receiving simple impulses of premonition, and is not only associated with ill-fated events, but is about how our attentiveness "extends" or reaches from the present into the future. This implies the ability to sense future unfoldment. The purpose of such eves-dropping into the future provides advantage in how to use our will (Zaniah of Virgo) in the present. The purpose of such future-seeing is so that we can prepare and create what is needed "to meet" the future events to come. The events seen are already precipitating from the realm of probabilities, which we then meet in the unfoldment of our spacetiming.

Our Disseminating Moon supports us to "demonstrate trust," and to act upon the signs and messages we have been receiving from the world around us. Non of us are forsaken or deprived of guidance, nor even need intermediaries like those found in religions or those of the astrological arts. All of us are merely learning to see, feel, and listen to the guidance of the divine expressing in the everyday affairs of our lives, palpable guidance which is continually around us, moment to moment, communicating through everything--the simple things occurring in our lives, the thoughts in our minds, the feelings we have--its nature's way. We need only to trust in them and act upon them.

Sun Aquarius

The Sun moves into sidereal Aquarius on February 13, just after the Disseminating Moon.

Last Quarter Moon Phase Characteristics